joint venture Archives

Winsage

August 18, 2026

China reportedly orders state agencies to uninstall its government-only edition of Windows 10 — Beijing accelerates planned retirement over data security concerns

China's Ministry of State Security has directed state-linked organizations to remove a tailored version of Windows 10 from their systems, expediting a planned phase-out initially set for February 2027. This directive is driven by data security concerns, although specific vulnerabilities were not disclosed. The customized version, developed by C&M Information Technologies (CMIT), is based on Windows 10 Enterprise but modified to exclude consumer features and ensure updates remain within China. Since its launch in 2017, it has been used by various central agencies. The Chinese government has also encouraged the elimination of foreign-branded computers, leading to the emergence of domestic operating systems. Despite these efforts, as of July 2026, Windows held an 87.64% share of desktop web traffic in China, with Windows 10 accounting for 43.56% of usage. Approximately two in five Chinese desktops still run an unsupported version of Microsoft's software.

AppWizard

August 18, 2026

Toymaker Mattel launches a new game studio with a focus on Roblox and Fortnite that could signal a growing shift in where studios spend money

Mattel has established Mattel Game Studios, a new division focused on creating original interactive experiences based on its brands, moving away from traditional gaming methods. This initiative follows the company's acquisition of Mattel163, which was previously a joint venture with NetEase that published mobile digital card games. While continuing to develop mobile games, Mattel is also exploring platforms like Roblox and Fortnite, reflecting the changing gaming landscape where Roblox players logged over 10 billion hours monthly in 2025. Mattel's strategy is more focused and less reliant on traditional gaming investments, aiming to engage younger audiences. The success of this approach could encourage other companies to explore non-traditional gaming platforms.

AppWizard

June 12, 2026

Microsoft is looking to speed up development of future Elder Scrolls, Fallout, and Halo games

Microsoft is considering a strategic pivot for its Xbox division, which may include spinning it off into a standalone entity or transforming it into a wholly-owned subsidiary. There are discussions about a potential joint venture with unnamed partners to facilitate a smoother sale of Xbox. The company is focusing its resources on its most prominent gaming titles while facing challenges, including the possibility of job losses for hundreds of employees. Anticipated game releases like Fallout 4 and The Elder Scrolls VI have left fans waiting for updates, and the Halo franchise has seen stagnation since the establishment of 343 Industries. Halo Infinite's content updates ceased in 2025, four years after its launch. Microsoft has not yet made immediate changes but is exploring a broad range of options for the future of Xbox.

AppWizard

December 21, 2025

TikTok is being sold to US investors: Here’s what it means for Android users

TikTok has signed a deal to establish a joint venture primarily controlled by American investors, set to close on January 22, 2026. U.S. investors will gain full control over TikTok's algorithm and decision-making processes. The joint venture will involve partial ownership transfer to firms including Oracle Corporation, Silver Lake, and MGX. The agreement follows an Executive Order by President Trump on September 25, 2025, mandating that the U.S. joint venture be majority owned by American investors and governed by a majority-American board of directors. The deal aims to address concerns about the influence of TikTok's algorithm on public opinion and will ensure U.S. user data is stored in a secure cloud environment managed by Oracle. There are uncertainties regarding potential Chinese government intervention and compliance with congressional stipulations.